Plant Library
Kentia Palm Care Guide
Howea forsteriana
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
The kentia palm is the elegant hotel-lobby palm: slow, tolerant of lower light and dry air, and listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Its slow growth is why larger plants cost more.
Plant profile
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect light; tolerates low light
- Water
- When the top 2 in of soil is dry
- Humidity
- Average
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Size
- 5-10 ft indoors over years
- Growth
- Slow
Light
Medium to bright indirect light; tolerates low light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top 2 in of soil is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Because it grows slowly, buy close to the size you want.
Common problems
- Brown tips: Dry air or salt build-up; flush the soil.
- Yellow lower fronds: Normal aging, or overwatering.
- Black spots: Overwatering or cold.
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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